Academy midfielder Leo Mazzone has signed a two-year contract at Ebbsfleet United.

The 17-year-old, who made his debut in last season's Kent Senior Cup final, becomes the 21st member of manager Steve Brown's first-team squad for 2014-15.

Leo Mazzone (in white) training at Cobdown Picture: Matthew Walker

Brown said: "I have been hugely impressed with the progress Leo has made in the past year and of course I gave him his first-team debut in the Kent Senior Cup Final and he performed exceptionally well.

"He has been with the first team during pre-season training and he has shown me enough to convince me that he can have a bright future in the game. He still has a lot to learn but if he continues to work hard and apply himself he will reap the rewards that will bring."

Academy manager Daryl McMahon added: "This is a fantastic boost for the academy and demonstrates to all our young players that the opportunity is there for them to progress through to the first team.

"I am very pleased for Leo who is a great lad. He has worked very hard on his game and fully deserves this contract."

Ebbsfleet were due to visit VCD Athletic on Saturday for their first pre-season friendly but the game has been called off because of a waterlogged pitch.